Cook County, Illinois Weapons Charges Defense Attorney

Anyone who owns or handles a weapon and is not compliant with Illinois weapons laws can be charged with a violation. Many find themselves on the wrong side of the law because they do not understand what is required. Attorney Sandra L. Byrd represents people throughout Chicago, Cook County, and surrounding counties who need a strong advocate on their side. Ms. Byrd is ready to talk with you about the best possible defense for your situation.

Explaining Illinois Weapons Laws

According to Illinois laws, weapons can be any number of objects including, but not limited to:

Guns

Dangerous knives including switch blades

Broken glass or bottles

Black-jacks

Metal knuckles

Clubs

Stilettoes

Razors

Tasers

A weapon is classified based on its manufactured purpose or the intent of the person who carries the item. For example, a broken glass bottle does not become a weapon until it is used to knowingly harm another person. By contrast, a firearm is considered a weapon because it is manufactured to be a weapon; intent is not required.

A person who engages in the unlawful carrying, selling, manufacturing, purchasing, or possessing a gun or other weapon is subject to a weapons charge. Attorney Sandra L. Byrd knows the intricacies of weapons laws and is able to advise you fully and provide viable options for a defense based on your circumstances.

Possession, Transfer and Transportation of Firearms

The Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) Card Act (430 ILCS 65) regulates the use and ownership of firearms in the state of Illinois. The Act outlines who may have access to such weapons and the responsibilities associated with ownership. FOID cards are issued by the Illinois State Police. While there are exceptions, residents cannot lawfully buy or possess a firearm, Taser, stun gun or ammunition without a valid FOID card in their possession. Even those visiting the state are subject to lawful handling and possession of weapons.

If you plan to transport any firearm, it must be:

Unloaded and enclosed in a legally acceptable case, or

Disassembled and in a non-functional state, or

Not immediately accessible

Firearm possession in Illinois is among the most restrictive in the country and several local jurisdictions such as the City of Chicago and Cook County impose even further restrictions. It is always best to make sure you understand what is acceptable to avoid needless weapons charges. Such charges are serious and violations range from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class X felony. There are serious consequences for weapons charge convictions and you need strong representation to obtain the most favorable result. Ms. Byrd has experience with successfully fighting for dismissals, reducing charges and obtaining not guilty verdicts in gun and weapons cases.

If you have been charged with a gun or weapons violation, contact Sandra L. Byrd today for a free initial consultation. She will explain what you are facing and analyze the circumstances of your case. From her Chicago, Illinois office, she serves clients across Cook County and beyond.